Manila: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Thursday that Iran is "paying the price" for repeatedly failing to honor agreements with Washington. Speaking to reporters in the Philippines during the ASEAN meeting, Rubio emphasized that Iran's leadership has consistently reneged on deals, resulting in significant consequences.

According to TRTworld.com, Rubio asserted that Iran is "not ready to make a deal," accusing Tehran of persistently altering agreements after they are made. He suggested that Iran may eventually return to negotiations due to the high costs it is incurring. Rubio referenced President Donald Trump's strategy, describing the administration's policy as "a head for an eye," and warned that the repercussions for Iran would increase until its leadership reassesses its stance.

In addition to his remarks on Iran, Rubio urged Yemen's Houthi group to refrain from deepening its involvement in the regional conflict, cautioning against being "suckered into" the war by Tehran. He indicated that while the Houthis had remained largely uninvolved, recent actions against Saudi Arabia and their ships suggest otherwise. Rubio expressed hope that the Houthis would cease their involvement, stressing that the United States is ready to facilitate an end to the conflict in Ukraine.

Rubio also reported on his discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at the ASEAN meeting. He highlighted the United States' willingness to play a "constructive role" in resolving the war in Ukraine, labeling it a "senseless war" with heavy civilian casualties and ongoing Russian strikes on Kiev. Rubio emphasized the necessity for a settlement that is acceptable to both Russia and Ukraine, noting the significant toll the conflict has taken and the incentives both sides have to end it.